COMPLETE with a 48-volt mild hybrid, the new look BMW ALPINA XD3 will hit the local market later this year, with a refreshed diesel hybrid. It will be priced from $119,900 plus on-road costs.
The performance SUV features a classic 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder engine with two variable-geometry turbochargers, as well as a 48-volt starter-generator system that can contribute up to 8kW of additional power to support the combustion engine as required.
The XD3 offers peak power of 261kW and deeply impressive torque, peaking at 730Nm. Supporting the remarkable power outputs are several systems specifically designed by ALPINA’s engineering team to ensure performance consistency and longevity.
“The BMW ALPINA XD3 is a mainstay of the ALPINA Automobiles Australia product range,” ALPINA Automobiles Australia sales manager Phil Jeffery said.
“With its unique straight-six cylinder, bi-turbo diesel drivetrain and 48-volt mild hybrid system, it combines all the smoothness and response you would expect of a BMW ALPINA vehicle, with the added benefit of exceptional fuel economy.”
A specific ALPINA intercooler is incorporated, as well as a high-performance cooling system that incorporates large-volume coolers, a transmission oil cooler, optimised engine coolant radiators and an electro-mechanical coolant pump.
An eight-speed torque converter-equipped ZF ‘8HP76’ gearbox is used, specifically adapted to the BMW ALPINA XD3’s torque-rich drivetrain. This can be manually shifted via the traditional steering-wheel mounted ALPINA SWITCH-TRONIC gearshift buttons.
Optional CNC-milled aluminium shifting paddles are also available. An ALPINA-optimised xDrive all-wheel drive system uses a pronounced rear-wheel drive bias for impressive handling and traction.
A limited-slip differential is fitted to the BMW ALPINA XD3’s rear axle for further slippery-surface control, while the new electronic Performance Control system can subtly brake individual wheels to further maximise grip and traction where required.
The BMW ALPINA XD3 accelerates from zero to 100km/h in only 4.9 seconds, while returning combined fuel consumption figures of only 6.8L/100km on the combined cycle (WLTP). Emissions are rated at 180g/km on the combined cycle.
Featuring an ALPINA-specific adaptive suspension system, the BMW ALPINA XD3 offers impressive ride and handling in all situations.
Stiffer and shorter suspension springs are employed for improved control, while the damper system features an additional COMFORT+ setting that is exclusive to ALPINA and offers a wonderfully supple ride without sacrificing handling.
For this update, the ALPINA engineers also retuned the variable sport steering system for more precise response and improved feel.
The standard 20-inch ALPINA CLASSIC alloy wheels feature lockable hub covers and hidden air valves to create a timeless look. Forged, weight-optimised 22-inch ALPINA CLASSIC wheels are also available.
For either wheel, Pirelli has developed a specific P Zero ‘ALP’ for the BMW ALPINA XD3.
These high-performance tyres are developed via an intensive testing program that incorporates both ALPINA and Pirelli engineers, with the resulting tyre offering an incredible blend of grip, longevity, ride and response.
For the standard 20-inch wheel, the Pirelli P Zero ALP tyres measure 255/40/ZR20 on the front axle and 285/40/ZR20 on the rear.
The optional 22-inch forged wheel features Pirelli P Zero ALP tyres that are sized 255/35/ZR22 up front and 295/30/ZR22 on the rear.
Forged in high-density aluminium, these wheels result in a combined unsprung weight reduction of 15kg when compared to conventional alloy wheels of the same size.
The BMW ALPINA XD3’s braking system now features higher-performance brake pads that work with four-piston fixed front callipers and 395mm front discs. At the rear, single floating callipers work with 370mm discs.
An optional high-performance brake system features lightweight drilled composite discs measuring 395mm at the front and 398mm for the rear.
The BMW ALPINA XD3 takes key design cues from the latest BMW X3 range, with additional ALPINA-specific refinements.
A striking new LED light design and updated kidney grilles are incorporated into the XD3’s design, which features re-engineered ALPINA front and rear body sections to maximise aerodynamic and cooling air flows.
The kidney grille’s air flap control system and the front apron’s wide apertures direct air flow aerodynamically, while ensuring fresh air flows to the XD3’s cooling systems to ensure maximum performance and efficiency.
A reshaped rear diffuser smoothly integrates four quad stainless steel ALPINA exhaust outlets, while further differentiating the BMW ALPINA XD3.
Augmenting the specific ALPINA features is a redesigned centre console with new gear shifter and individualised ALPINA build plaque provides a striking aesthetic, with high quality finishes and intuitive control options.
BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional is fitted as standard and uses a large 12.3-inch central display for infotainment and navigation control.
It also offers impressive customisation, including new sport displays for turbocharger boost pressure, oil temperature and a g-force meter.
The BMW ALPINA XD3 also benefits from a redesigned climate control interface for more intuitive operation.
BMW’s latest generation Driving Assistant Professional is fitted and incorporates a wide spectrum of active safety features, including active cruise control with stop/go, front and rear cross traffic warning, crossroads warning and evasion aid.
Steering and lane control assist, and lane keep assist with side collision warning, also feature. Parking Assistant Plus is also standard and adds rear Active Park Distance Control, Surround View, Panorama View and 3D View.
The BMW ALPINA XD3 is covered by a 3-year unlimited-kilometre warranty. complimentary Roadside Assistance is also provided for this period. Further details are available from your local BMW dealership, where your ALPINA can also be serviced.
What a stunning car! Looks so great for an SUV!